County Commissioners announce phase one of American Rescue Plan community grants
LOCK HAVEN, PA – Earlier this year, Clinton County Government received just over $3.7 million in the first of two annual installments of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). According to a Monday announcement from the Clinton County Commissioners and follow-up at their work session, the United States Treasury continues to outline guidance and compliance for how the funds can be used. The commissioners said they intend on budgeting a portion of the ARPA to cover revenue loss and county initiatives in response to the COVID pandemic. “We will be using funds to modernize our online capabilities for the community so that more information can be accessed from home, said Board Chairman Miles Kessinger. We have some hardware that is dated and doesn’t offer the expanded access that newer equipment and programs give.” Kessinger explained that current technology will need replaced eventually and in order to prevent a tax increase the County needs to cover revenue losses and plan for the future”.
One of the approved uses is providing grants in the community following the guidelines set forth by the Federal Government. The Commissioners agreed to start that process with what they are calling ARPA Phase One. This initial phase will be available to municipalities, public authorities, and 501c3 non-profits. These entities will be able to apply for one of two categories; water and sewer infrastructure or recreation projects, both federally approved uses of funds. “Municipalities are also receiving ARPA funds and many have infrastructure projects that need upgrades” said Vice Chairman Jeff Snyder. “If we can complement their ARPA funds with some additional funding that will help them complete those projects, the County is all the better for it. We’d like to see municipalities and authorities complete bigger, sustainable projects rather than using the funds on smaller, less impactful projects because they didn’t have enough funding” he continued.
Grant applications regarding recreation projects are required to provide a direct response to negative economic impacts from the coronavirus emergency and/or are related to public health and/or improve the environment. “One thing the pandemic has taught us is that interest in recreation is growing. There are a lot of projects in process and many opportunities to expand or develop recreational amenities and opportunities in Clinton County”, said Commissioner Angela Harding.
The Clinton County Planning Department has prepared an online grant application. The portal will open on Tuesday and remain open through Nov. 1. According to County Planner, Katie de Silva the application is user friendly and the portal on the county website offers more details regarding eligibility and requirements. County Grants Administrator, Kari Kepler encourages anyone with questions to contact her office for assistance. All applications will be accepted electronically, however if an applicant lacks resources or needs help, Ms. Kepler will schedule an appointment to assist in the process.
Interested and eligible parties are asked to visit www.clintoncountypa.com/departments/funding-opportunites or call 570.893.4080.
